Athlone U21s County Champions 2013

Athlone captured their first Under-21 county title since 2005 with a sensational last-gasp win against St Loman’s in Kinnegad on Saturday. Despite trailing the newly crowned county senior champions from the first minute and by as much as five points midway through the second half, Athlone never gave up but still found themselves two points down deep into stoppage time.

One final surge saw a free fall to Brian Gill just inside the large square. He appeared to be foot-blocked as he tried to get his shot away, but the ball still found its way through a forest of bodies to Conal Sheeran. His snapshot was half-stopped by the St Loman’s keeper but the ball eventually looped into the net to send the Athlone players and supporters into raptures. Sanity was briefly restored for the kick-out but the referee’s immediate whistle saw the euphoria break out again as the supporters joined the team on the pitch for the presentation of the trophy.

Credit must go to the entire panel and their mentors Richie Daly and Fergal O’Toole for the commitment and the hard work that they put into this campaign. This included some early morning training sessions that the players themselves suggested and which were very well attended. The level of dedication shown by this group of players really augurs well for the future of the club. Congratulations to all involved.